A colposcopy is performed to help diagnose cervical, vaginal or vulvar cancer, genital warts, cervicitis, and to examine pre-cancerous tissue in the cervix or vagina. Your doctor may recommend a colposcopy if your pap smear or pelvic exam indicate abnormalities.

Using a special magnifying device known as a colposcope, your doctor will take an extensive look at your cervix, vulva and vagina. A vinegar solution may be applied to the vagina and cervix to make any abnormal areas more noticeable. If questionable areas are noticed, a biopsy may be taken for further testing. A colposcopy typically takes 10 to 20 minutes.